The Impact of

Simulation-Based Training

At the centerpiece of HelpMeSee’s global program to eliminate cataract blindness is a simulation-based training program focused on the training eye specialists on MSICS (Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery), a high-quality, cost-efficient procedure, that can address the millions waiting for cataract surgery.

Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery:

Provides a best-fit for surgery in low resource settings.

Improves safety with proper training.

Provides a high-volume treatment that can clear the cataract surgery backlog.

Makes delivery of cataract care possible in rural regions.

Is the technique of choice for mature and hard cataracts.

Ensures high-quality outcomes for patients.

To make large-scale MSICS training possible, HelpMeSee, with technology partners MOOG, InSimo, and Sensegraphics developed the HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulator. In the past, MSICS training has been primarily dependent on performing live surgery. The Eye Surgery Simulator is designed to reduce the time required to acquire surgical skills and qualifying students for independent practice. When combined with a comprehensive curriculum, simulation-based training will help the trainee to become skilled without risking the health of the patient.

Benefits of the HelpMeSee simulation-based training program include:

Realistic feel and visuals in the eye surgery simulator

Immediate feedback on actions performed by trainees that allows trainees to develop surgical skills and judgement in advance, before operating on patients.

Rapid training of skilled cataract surgeons.

Provides an environment in which trainees can practice to proficiency.

Exposes the mechanics of the MSICS technique to students for improved outcomes.

Reduces the risk to patients by increasing the surgeon’s competence before progressing to live surgery.

Reduces the risk to patients by increasing the surgeon’s competence in advance of progressing to live surgery in the final phase of the training programs.

Once the simulation-based training program is in place, HelpMeSee will work with health partners and institutions to build large scale training centers in the regions where cataracts are the most prevalent. This way, trained cataract specialists can provide sustainable treatment in their local communities, where they are needed most.

The HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulator allows for an immersive, realistic experience that looks and feels like real eye surgery. The student can see and feel the resistance when cutting and slicing the different tissues of the eye. When combined with a comprehensive curriculum, trainees will be skilled in MSICS long before operating on a live patient.

Benefits of the HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulator include:

Realistic feel and visuals which give the feedback that allows trainees to develop surgical skills and judgment in advance, before operating on patients.

Allow for the rapid training of skilled cataract surgeons.

Provides an environment in which trainees can practice until proficiency is achieved.

Exposes the mechanics of the MSICS technique to students for improved outcomes.

Reduces the risk to patients by increasing the surgeon’s competence in advance of progressing to live surgery in the final phase of the training programs.

Once the simulation-based training program is in place, HelpMeSee will work with health partners and institutions to build large-scale training centers in the regions where cataracts are the most prevalent. This way, trained cataract specialists can provide sustainable treatment in their local communities, where they are needed most. For more information on our training program or to sign up for our simulator newsletter, click below.